Magnolia kept its playoff hopes alive with a resounding 129-92 victory over a short-handed Meralco squad in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup on Friday at the PhilSports Arena. The Hotshots capitalized on the absence of Bolts import Akil Mitchell, who missed his second straight game due to a back injury.
Ratliffe Leads Balanced Attack
Import Ricardo Ratliffe spearheaded Magnolia’s offensive explosion, posting 31 points and 19 rebounds. His performance, coupled with a well-rounded team effort, allowed the Hotshots to dominate from start to finish.
- Coach Chito Victolero expressed his pride in the team’s perseverance, emphasizing their hard work in practice.
- The win marked Magnolia’s third consecutive victory, leveling their record at 6-6.
Magnolia Awaits Knockout Opponent
Despite the victory, Magnolia’s fate remains uncertain as they await the TNT vs. Rain or Shine result. The outcome will determine who they will face in a do-or-die game for the final quarterfinals slot at the Ynares Center in Antipolo on Sunday.
- The win also secured Tropang Giga (TNT) the No. 2 seed and a twice-to-beat advantage in the playoffs.
- Victolero acknowledged the pressure but credited the team’s discipline and execution for their strong finish.
Zav Lucero and Team Effort Shine
Zav Lucero provided strong support with 22 points, shooting 4-of-4 from three-point range, including three straight triples that sealed the blowout in the final minutes.
- Lucero, named Player of the Game, praised the team’s desperation and unselfish play, emphasizing their ability to succeed when playing together.
Meralco’s Loss Has Minimal Impact
For Meralco, the defeat had little consequence as they had already secured the No. 5 seed and a best-of-three series against Barangay Ginebra in the quarterfinals.
- Raymond Almazan led the Bolts with 23 points, but lacked significant support, with only CJ Cansino (11 points) providing additional scoring.
- The absence of Akil Mitchell and underwhelming performances from key players contributed to their struggles.
What’s Next?
Magnolia has only one day to prepare for their crucial knockout game on Sunday. With momentum on their side, they aim to clinch the final playoff spot and extend their postseason run.
The Scores :
MAGNOLIA 129 – Ratliffe 31, Lucero 22, Sangalang 18,
Barroca 18, Abueva 14, Lee 7, Dionisio 7, Lastimosa 6, Alfaro 2, Dela
Rosa 2, Laput 2, Eriobu 0, Balanza 0.
MERALCO 92 – Almazan23,
Cansino 11, Black 9, Bates 8, Quinto 7, Banchero 6, Reyson 5, Torres 5,
Rios 5, Mendoza 4, Caram 4, Pasaol 3, Newsome 2, Hodge 0.
QUARTERS: 35-28, 73-47, 101-75, 129-92
